HOW TO TREAT SKIN BOILS AND CARBUNCLES

Pimples, boils and carbuncles are all staphylococcus infections, but they differ one from the other in depth. Pimples are in the superficial layers of the skin. Boils are in the deep layers of the skin and carbuncles are under the skin. The organisms reach the deeper layers of the skin by following down a hair follicle. As the infection develops the skin reacts by building a protective wall around the point of inflammation. This is called pyogenic membrane, and prevents the spread of the infection to adjacent areas of skin.
Early in the process the infection may be aborted by antibiotics. Later the infection may develop to the place where the tissue within the membrane is so badly injured that it breaks down to form pus. To open a boil before this takes place does more harm than good. The best treatment is to apply hot fomentations untill the boil comes to a "head". If there is a white pustule at the top, clean the area around it with soap and water and puncture it with flamed needle. Do not worry about how much it drains. Avoid squeezing it. If there is only scant drainage, continue the hot compress or put on a sulpha dressing.
Carbuncles, being so deep, they are in loose, fatty tissue that is not able to wall of the infection well and thus the condition may become very serious. Early in the infection heavy does antibiotics are indicated and sometimes x-ray therapy is used. When the carbuncle is ready to be opened the doctor will make an incision in the form of a cross and lay back the flags of the skin so that thorough drainage is affected

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REMEDIES FOR ACNE(PIMPLE)

The cause of acne(pimple) is not known, but there seems to be a strong hereditary tendency. Acne appears during the adolescent period and leaves in the thirties or late twenties. For some, acne is a serious problem, not only medically but also psychologically, disturbing even the personality. Sometimes these pimples are very deep and leave scars somewhat like those smallpox. Along with acne there are generally a number of blackheads.
Acne is not caused by diet, but certain foods definitely aggravate this condition, especially in some patients. Rich foods such as chocolate, nuts, cola drinks, ice cream, fatty meats, and excessive amounts of sugar, all seem to aggravate this condition. Certain drugs, such as those containing bromides and iodides, may also play a part.
Some girls develop one or two acne(pimples) just before menstruation. These last a day or two and are of no consequence. But when acne continues over months or years, it is distressing, especially to a young woman. If the acne is more than a monthly occurrence, it should be treated.
TREATMENT OF ACNE
Keep the skin clean by thorough washing two or three times a day with a good toilet soap. Some slightly abrasive soap will help to eliminate blackheads, but it should be used with care, particularly if the skin is inflamed. Smaller blackheads may be carefully removed after the use of warm moist towels applied to the face for ten or fifteen minutes. This will make the removal of blackheads easier. If pus has formed under the skin, be careful not to open the pimple until it is ready to drain. Squeezing and pinching of the skin may extend the inflammation and delay healing, and may also cause scarring of the face.
Avoid excessive amounts of sugar, and particularly chocolate and nuts. Choose a plain, well-balanced diet containing plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Drink water and fruit juices, but avoid highly sweetened drinks.
Sunshine and exercise are vital. It is good to exercise in the sunshine. Exercise causes the blood to flow freely and helps to build up the general resistance. The run on the skin destroys bacteria, and a little perspiration washes out the pores. Make sure you take a bath after the exercise. Your face should always be kept clean.

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